More than 500 students from five south suburban school districts took the stage Thursday evening at the Governors State University Center for the Performing Arts for the 2026 Black History Showcase, a regional celebration of African American history, culture and achievement.
Participating districts included Matteson School District 162, Matteson School District 153, Elementary School District 159, Rich Township High School District 227 and Southland College Prep Charter High School.
The evening opened with a musical tribute to the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, who passed away earlier this week, setting a reflective tone for a program that blended history with the contemporary.
The initiative was spearheaded by Dr. Johnnie Thomas, superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227, and developed in partnership with Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, superintendent of Matteson School District 162 and CEO of Southland College Prep Charter High School.
Throughout the evening, students delivered performances that brought Black history to life — including a musical presentation about Black Wall Street in Tulsa, selections inspired by The Lion King, tributes to Chicago House music and a celebration of the Jackson 5.
“This showcase demonstrates what is possible when districts collaborate with purpose,” Dr. Thomas said. “Our students are not only performing — they are learning, leading and honoring history.”
Dr. Davis added, “When we come together across districts, we show our students that their legacy is not just something to study — it is something to live.”